Marcelo Bielsa has told his Leeds United press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash against Newcastle that Adam Forshaw, Junior Firpo and Patrick Bamford are all still injured ahead of this weekend’s outing.
Leeds take on the Toon in a crucial clash that could be a big factor towards determining who will be relegated come the end of the season. Newcastle remain in the relegation zone, sitting in 19th despite their new wealth.
Last week’s win over West Ham was excellent for Leeds, but in the first half, both Forshaw and Firpo suffered muscle injuries. Forshaw took to Instagram after the match, underlining his hope to be fit for Saturday.
However, Bielsa stated Forshaw and Firpo are still injured – while Bamford has suffered a new injury on the bottom of his foot, but has overcome his muscle issues. Bielsa also gave an update on the players available.
He says he will be able to count on Joe Gelhardt and Tyler Roberts – with both missing for the last few weeks. Kalvin Phillips, Sam Greenwood, Liam Cooper, Jamie Shackleton and Charlie Cresswell are still sidelined.
“Forshaw and Firpo have muscular injuries. Bamford has a new injury at the bottom of his foot. He’s overcome his muscular problem, but he now has an injury at the bottom of his foot,” Bielsa said, as per Leeds’ YouTube.
“It’s likely for this game we are going to count on Roberts, with Gelhardt and Rodrigo. The players out of the squad in that position are going to be Patrick and Greenwood.”
Bielsa injury update: How will Leeds line-up against Newcastle?
With Gelhardt and Roberts fit again, it could see Leeds finally start with a recognised striker – given Dan James has been used as a false nine of late. The combination of Raphinha, James and Jack Harrison has worked well.
It would be a surprise for Bielsa to throw Roberts or Gelhardt in, but Rodrigo did get 30 minutes last time out and he could start up top. In midfield, Robin Koch is likely to start in midfield.
If Rodrigo comes in, Mateusz Klich can drop back in alongside Koch. Stuart Dallas might have to continue at right-back, allowing Luke Ayling to partner Pascal Struijk in the middle. Leo Hjelde might start on the left.
To confirm – Rodrigo, Gelhardt and Roberts are fit. But missing, are Cooper, Phillips, Bamford, Forshaw, Firpo, Cresswell, Shackleton and Greenwood.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
